RailPro > RailPro Specific Help & Discussion
Frog Juicers compatible with RailPro?
G8B4Life:
I did some searching after replying earlier and found this waveform generator circuit from Rob Paisley. With some component value changes to get to generate the correct duty cycle (it generates a zero stretched waveform, which probably can be used as is for out application anyway) it should be able to be fed into a commercial booster (cheaper than a command station) or build you own booster (he has a circuit for that too!).
http://www.circuitous.ca/xZeroStretch.html
- Tim
Alan:
Tim, there is no need for zero stretching (with a booster or with the new PDC converter) unless you are operating DC locos. RP modules rectify the track power so all AC frequencies and duty cycles produce the same result inside the LM.
Tom:
Well, this discussion has rocketed way past my level of electrical competence. But it raises the question of “why does not Ring fix the PWR-56 to be the more DCC friendly type of output.” The modules run on DCC anyway and it seems that Ring is trying to make RailPro more accessible to DCC enthusiasts (DCC Enabled) so why not allow potential RailPro users access to more stuff made for DCC? Maybe Ring could just update the software running the PWR-56.
I think I will go with the SmartFrog V5 or the Caboose 220S ground throws. Have not found anyone other than ANE website selling the SmartFrog.
Tom
Alan:
--- Quote from: Tom on July 20, 2018, 12:37:30 PM ---... But it raises the question of “why does not Ring fix the PWR-56 to be the more DCC friendly type of output.” ...
Tom
--- End quote ---
Adds unnecessary cost to the PWR56 and potentially detracts from AR1 sales. Ring is sensitive to his power supply price as evidenced by the replacement of the PWR75 with the PWR56 sometime back. The PWR75 was a more robust unit than the PWR56 (barring the occasional PWR75 China-made fan problems). The PWR56's big advantage was much lower cost. Adding DCC output would defeat the purpose of moving to the PWR56.
I'd suggest Ring seriously consider offering a juicer for 6-8 frogs. And while he is at, also offer an occupancy detector. As it is now, the RailPro-supplied solution for frog juicing is very expensive and there is no RailPro-supplied solution for controlling signals or crossings. Juicing and detection both work on the same fundamental principle (detecting current flow) as the AR1 so its not like he would be starting from scratch.
TwinStar:
--- Quote from: Alan on July 20, 2018, 11:20:37 AM ---Hey Bill,
This discussion sparks a suggestion for a new PDC product - DC to emulated DCC track power converter. There is a simple common circuit called a relaxation oscillator which does exactly that. 24 volts DC in = 12 volts AC square wave out. Add a couple transistors on the output to get whatever current output desired. Presto, PDC has a low cost accessory for people wanting to run on DCC power without having a DCC system!
The basic circuit:
Read all about them: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Relaxation_oscillator
--- End quote ---
Alan:
Is this a new product that is available or are you pitching the idea for a new product?
This could be HUGE for some of us. My Free-mo modules are required to be able to work with the Modular Signal System which has current detection as one of the layers. However, there are only two known current detectors that work with both DC and DCC. The RR Cirkit BOD-1 is a good $12 option but it will not work for Free-mo due to the reversible nature of the modules and the polarity sensitivity of the BOD-1 in DC mode. The Dallee DT is a perfect solution but at $30 a piece gets cost prohibitive for small modules.
If DC could be put on the rails that looked like DCC and worked with the near endless supply of DCC products that would be wonderful.
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